Songs of Shame
Olipoli Non-Profit Organization - Community of Music & Research
Greece
Traditional songs are a powerful part of cultural heritage, yet some continue to convey gender stereotypes and violence without critical reflection. Through educational workshops in schools, students critically explore these songs, rewrite their lyrics from contemporary perspectives, and participate in the filming of a song with new lyrics. The project culminates in a public concert, fostering dialogue, empathy and awareness on gender-based violence among young people and the wider community.
“Songs of Shame” is a 12-month educational programme implemented in three secondary schools across two Thessaloniki municipalities, inspired by the eponymous book-CD by musician Natalia Lampadaki. It responds to rising gender-based violence in Greece, particularly in Thessaloniki and increasingly among younger age groups. Students and educators explore traditional folk songs reflecting gender inequality and violence. Through music-based storytelling workshops led by representatives of the vocal ensemble Nefes Project, students critically analyze these songs and are guided to creatively rewrite lyrics of a selected song, which is then video-recorded and shared digitally to spread their message. The programme culminates in a free public concert with the full Nefes Project ensemble performing alongside students and educators, raising awareness of gender-based violence. Implemented within the EU-funded POWER programme coordinated by We World with ActionAid Hellas and Asociación Bienestar y Desarrollo, it aims to sensitize youth and promote prevention and response to gender violence.